IS-Inspired Terror Module Planned to Use Toy Car Remotes as IED Detonators
In a significant breakthrough, an investigation into an Islamic State-inspired terror module has revealed that the suspects intended to utilize the remote control mechanisms of toy cars to trigger improvised explosive devices (IEDs), rather than converting the vehicles themselves into bombs, according to a senior police officer in New Delhi.
Remote Control as Detonator Mechanism
The remote control of the radio-controlled (RC) cars was designed to function as the detonator, with the car's internal circuit connected directly to the IED. This method aimed to exploit the wireless communication capabilities of toy car remotes for malicious purposes.
During the probe, authorities seized an RC car from suspects in Mumbai. Additionally, the special cell recovered an actual detonator device and chemicals such as Sulphur from Rizwan, a member of the second module involved in the plot.
Global Precedents of Toy Car Modus Operandi
Terror outfits have previously employed the toy car modus operandi in attacks worldwide. For instance, the bombs detonated during the 2013 Boston Marathon were triggered using a remote device similar to those used for controlling toy cars, with instructions disseminated through al-Qaida's online magazine Inspire, sources indicated.
In the same year, UK police arrested two individuals who had discussed sending a remote-controlled toy car loaded with explosives through the gate of a Territorial Army base. Investigators at that time recovered a manual titled Make a Bomb in the Kitchen of Your Mom along with issues of Inspire magazine.
Islamic State has also been known to deploy toy cars in combat zones. In 2015, Kurdish forces in Syria and Iraq reportedly recovered such a device after it failed to explode, highlighting the persistent threat of this tactic.
Ongoing Investigations and Arrests
Delhi Police are now intensifying their scrutiny of the Telegram-based module. Following arrests in Maharashtra, raids are currently underway in Madhya Pradesh and other states to identify and apprehend the remaining members of the two groups.
The two accused, Mossab Ahmad alias Kalam and Hamad Siddiqui, who were arrested in Mumbai, have been transported to Delhi for interrogation. A police team has also visited Mossab's hometown in Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, to gather further evidence.
Their mobile phones and electronic devices have been confiscated. Both individuals were produced in court and remanded to police custody, allowing for continued questioning.
Telegram Groups and Online Recruitment
Investigators disclosed that the accused had initially named their Telegram groups Saviour Mehdi and Bomb Squad, later altering the names to evade detection. During interrogation, they allegedly informed police that their handler had shared online tutorials and DIY videos explaining how RC cars and controllers communicate wirelessly using radio waves.
The handler, identified as Abu Huzaifa, is believed to be associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) while posing as an ISIS recruiter on Telegram and other online platforms. He allegedly transmitted the tutorials through groups named Mission Khilafat and Soldiers of Jihad, exploiting digital channels for radicalization.
Early Interception and Deradicalization Efforts
A senior officer emphasized that the suspects were intercepted at an early stage of planning, preventing potential harm. A few minors have also been identified in connection with the module. They will be counselled and possibly deradicalised as part of ongoing efforts to address extremist influences, the officer added, underscoring the proactive measures being taken.
